Tributes paid after woman dies in fall from cliffs in South Shields

Fiona Thompson

Thoughts and prayers have been sent to the loved ones of a woman who died after falling from a cliff.

The emergency services were called to Marsden in South Shields just after 3.30pm yesterday after calls raising concerns for a woman who was on the wrong side of the barriers next to the Marsden Grotto.

Police, fire and coastguard services – including a helicopter – attended and tried to speak to the woman, however, she fell from the cliffs and into the sea.

The woman was recovered from the water and Tynemouth RNLI’s crew, along with South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade (SSVLB).

She was taken to South Shields ferry landing, where an ambulance was waiting.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was pronounced dead.

Northumbria Police say inquiries are ongoing into her death.

Her identity is not yet known.

Campaign group Cliff Angels South Shields is bidding to set up extra security on the cliff top.

The online appeal has attracted more than 3,600 members on Facebook.

It was launched by Kirk Wilson after the death of teenager Chirelle Calder, from Whiteleas, who fell from the cliffs in August.

Mr Wilson has been among those to leave messages in the wake of yesterday's tragedy.

Writing on Facebook, he said: "So sad I hope the lady is at peace now.

"Sending love to her family and friends."

The father-of-two’s idea is to have a bus parked up along the coast which people will be able to visit if they are feeling upset or vulnerable so they can speak to volunteers.

Mr Wilson, from South Shields, has met with officials from South Tyneside Council and the National Trust and is raising cash to make his plan a reality.